Updated 1245
Wide-ranging electoral reform proposed by Chamber: The Chamber of Commerce has proposed cutting the number of MPs from 79 to 45, with all serving full-time and receiving higher salaries. It also suggests reducing electoral districts from 13 to five, merging Gozo with Mellieħa and Mġarr. To boost smaller parties, the Chamber recommends replacing the current 16.7% district vote threshold with a 5% national threshold, ensuring proportional seat distribution. Each district would elect nine MPs, maintaining equal populations. Additionally, unelected experts could be appointed for their technical skills, replacing the lowest-voted MP from the same party, subject to reconfirmation after three years. The reform aims to create a more efficient and representative parliament.
Delivery fleet operators form an association: Malta’s delivery fleet operators have formed the Malta Delivery Fleet Operators Association (MDFOA) to streamline industry policies and coordinate responses to government proposals. The association supports the recently proposed Malta Labour Migration Policy, praising its clarity in a complex area. However, it clarified that it is not pushing for an increase in Third Country Nationals (TCNs). Instead, it advocates for policies that allow TCNs with full-time jobs in Malta to take on part-time roles to meet market demands. The MDFOA emphasises that flexible policy implementation will help achieve industry goals more efficiently.
Government shoots down Opposition motion to strengthen anti-SLAPP law: The government has rejected the Opposition’s proposed amendments to the legal notice implementing the EU anti-SLAPP directive. The current law only protects individuals from transnational SLAPP cases, while the Opposition sought to extend safeguards to cases filed in Malta. Proposed changes included raising fines, mandating public case data disclosure, and preventing courts from penalising defendants for ignoring foreign lawsuits. Justice Minister Jonathan Attard criticised the amendments as unclear and warned against restricting legitimate legal actions. The Institute of Maltese Journalists (IĠM) condemned the government’s stance, calling it a missed opportunity to strengthen protections for journalists. The government pledged further consultation but did not specify a timeline for a White Paper on press freedom reforms.
Malta committed to ensure a fair economic income for farmers: During an EU Council meeting on food, agriculture, and fisheries, Minister Anton Refalo reaffirmed Malta’s commitment to ensuring fair economic income for Maltese and Gozitan farmers. He highlighted efforts to sustain the sector and raised concerns over European farmers being forced to sell produce below production costs, calling it unsustainable. Discussions focused on strengthening farmers’ positions in the supply chain and tackling unfair trade practices. Refalo emphasised fair contracts to protect small farmers from abuse. Climate change risks to agriculture and food security were also addressed, with MED9 countries advocating for protective measures. He also stressed the need to attract more farmers to organic farming schemes for a sustainable future.
Morning Brieifng
False hostage report drives heavy police presence to Bidnija
A heavy police presence, including ambulances and emergency vehicles, rushed to Bidnija on Tuesday after reports of a hostage situation—only to find it was a false alarm, likely meant to disrupt a livestreamed gaming session. A police spokesperson said the call came from an international number, claiming people were being held hostage in a house. Upon arrival, officers found only a group of gamers streaming online. A photo from the scene shows an officer in a room filled with gaming equipment. The incident is suspected to be a case of “swatting,” a dangerous hoax where false emergency reports trigger a major police response. Authorities are investigating the matter. (Maltatoday)
Lilu l-King gets bail again despite violating conditions
Mohamed Ali Ahmem Elmushraty, known as Lilu King, has been granted bail after being charged in October with threatening and injuring a man in Sliema. This request was approved despite the accused violating bail conditions in three previous cases. The 32-year-old Tunisian entrepreneur, known for showcasing his wealth on social media, pleaded not guilty to the charges related to an October 12 incident. CCTV footage allegedly shows the victim fleeing as Elmushraty chased him. Prosecutors claim the victim was assaulted, while the defense argues he had thrown beer at Elmushraty. (The Malta Independent)
BCRS announces hefty price increases for importers and producers
Administrative fees for beverage producers and importers under the BCRS scheme have been significantly increased due to rising operational costs, the company announced. These hikes do not affect the 10c deposit per bottle or can charged to consumers but apply to separate fees imposed on producers and importers for each container placed on the market. The new rates take effect on Saturday, February 1, covering all containers under the BCRS recycling scheme. Fee increases range from 54% for coloured glass bottles to a 143% surge for aluminium containers.Processing costs for plastic and steel containers will also rise by 62% to 111%. (Times of Malta)
